What are the differences between Fastag, QR Code and NFC?

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Let us understand the concepts of Quick Response (QR) code, Fastag and Near Field Communication (NFC).

QR Code

QR code is called "Quick Response", it allows us to encode or store over 4500 characters in a two-dimensional bar code.

QR codes are the "square barcodes" that are initially developed and used in Japan.

The main aim of the QR code is to store the information in such a way that the machine (scanner) can be able to read the data present in the code.

Advantages

The advantages of QR code are as follows −

Versatility
We can scan anywhere using mobile
Reduce paper usage
Free and inexpensive
Quick response
Benefit for customer and business people

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of QR code are as follows −

People are not familiar.
Requires mobile with camera feature to scan
Sometimes QR code cannot read properly
Interface issue

Given below is the sample image of QR Code −

Near Field Communication (NFC)

NFC stands for Near Field Communication. NFC operates within a radius of about 4 cm and also provides a wireless connection between your device and another device. It allows for two-way communication, with both devices involved and are able to send and receive information.

This NFC connection does not depend on Wi-Fi, 3G, LTE or otherwise, and it doesn't cost anything to use.

With the help of a credit card which is linked to the device it is helpful to make payments by simply holding your device near an NFC-enabled payment machine.

There are many other uses for NFC as well. Examples include: Paying a fare on public transit, such as a bus or train.

Advantages

The advantages of NFC are as follows −

Safety
Versatility
Convenience
Used for multiple applications
More security when compared to other technology
Compatibility with RFID technology

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of NFC are as follows −

Company agreement is required to Use
Works for shorter distance
Slow data transfer rate
Not advantage for users
Power consumption is more

Given below is the sample image of NFC −

Fast Tag

FASTag is an electronic scanner system used for toll collection in India, which is operated by the National Highway Authority of India. It is based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. FASTag is fixed on the windscreen of vehicles. FASTags does not have any expiry date. They can be recharged at any time.

Advantages

The advantages of Fastag are as follows −

Convenience to users
Secure payment system
Protection against corruption
Money saving
Man power cost saves

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of Fastag are as follows −

Network failure
Glitches
Card safety
Ownership issues.

Differences

The major differences between NFC, QR code and fastag are as follows −

NFC	Fastag	QR code
NFC code was created and developed by Franz and Philippian the year 2002.	Fastag was developed by the national payment corporation of India in the year 2014.	QR code was created and developed by Masahiro Hara in 1994.
NFC is one type.	Fastag is represented in one type.	QR Code is one type.
NFC is used for identity cards, contact less payments, mobile payments etc.	Fastag is used by the National highway authority for toll collection.	QR code is a two dimensional printed representation of data used to scan and retrieval of data
The technology used by NFC is inductive coupling between antennas of the connecting devices.	Fastag is based on RFID technology.	QR code is based on Morse code.
NFC storage capacity is up to 8 kilobytes.	Fastag storage capacity is 3 kilo bytes.	QR code storage capacity is 2 kilobytes.
NFC is not cost effective.	Fasttag is cost effective.	QR code is more cost effective but it is easy to deploy.
Only one NFC can be processed at a time.	At a time so many fastags can be read at toll plaza.	At a time only one QR code can be read.
NFC popularity is moderate when compared to fastag.	Now-a-days Fastag's popularity has become High.	QR code is more popular
NFC is a two way communication.	Fastag is one way communication.	It is one way communication.
NFC requires more storage when compared to Fastag and QR code	Fastag requires more storage when compared to QR code and less when compared to NFC	QR code requires less storage when compared to NFC and Fastag.
NFC is used for identity cards, contact less payments, mobile payments etc.	Fastag is used by the National highway authority for toll collection.	QR code used at super markets and different stores to track all purchased products and also used in hospitals, cinema halls etc.